Trapeziometacarpal joint arthrodesis for osteoarthritis. Results of power staple fixation

Fifty-two cases of trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis were treated with arthrodesis using small staple fixation. Eighty-five per cent of the patients were free of pain, with normal thumb. Opposition to the fourth finger tip was always possible and opposition to the little finger tip was observed in 94% of cases. Four patients (7.6%) developed a non-union but only two complained of pain. Arthrodesis with power staple fixation minimizes bone resection and postoperative immobilization (mean 28 days) because of the good stability following this procedure.